FAQ

Q: What is the UCT Fund, Inc?

A: UCT Fund, Inc. stands for the University of Cape Town Fund, Incorporated. UCT Fund is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization (recognized by the U.S. Internal Revenue Service) which makes grants that benefit the University of Cape Town in South Africa. The UCT Fund, Inc. was formed in 1984. We also assist alumni and friends of UCT remain connected to the University through U.S. regional social media communications and event programs.

Q: Is the UCT Fund, Inc. a University Department or a part of the University of Cape Town?

A: No, UCT Fund, Inc. is an independent, U.S.-based organization, with its own Board of Directors, but its primary goal is to support the University of Cape Town.

Q: What method of payment does UCT Fund accept for donations?

A: The two most popular methods are by major credit card online and by check payment. Please review the “Giving to UCT” page. Important: All donations must be presented as a request of how the donor wishes the Board to designate the gift to the University.

Q: What is UCT Fund’s procedures for accepting donations?

A: The University of Cape Town Fund, Inc. is a not-for-profit corporation chartered under the laws of New York State, and recognized by the U.S. Internal Revenue Service as a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization. In compliance with IRS regulations, the Board of Directors of the UCT Fund, Inc. must consider and approve the allocation of gifts to the University of Cape Town. UCT Fund acknowledges in writing all donations received by the UCT Fund, and where applicable, we acknowledge the donor’s request for their donation to be designated for a particular purpose. Donations to UCT Fund, Inc. are tax deductible to the extent permitted by U.S. law. Donors must send in writing a “requested designation”, rather than “direction”, of their gift to be eligible for a tax deduction.

On a quarterly basis during the year, the UCT Fund Board considers a group of proposals for grants to be made to UCT, taking into account donors’ requests for their contributions to be used to support particular projects at UCT. As donor, you can have confidence that your request will be honored by the Board which, by law, must retain the discretion to approve all grants and ensure that they are within the charitable purposes of the Fund. Once these proposals have been approved by the Board, distribution of the funds is made to UCT, with details of the donor’s request.

Q: Do I get a tax receipt for my donation?

A: Yes, you receive a thank you letter receipt once you make a donation to the University of Cape Town Fund, Inc. with your request to our Board on how you would like your gift to be designated.

Q: How does the UCT Fund, Inc. support the University of Cape Town?

A: On a regular basis, the Board of Directors of the UCT Fund, Inc. makes grants to a variety of Departments, research projects and initiatives at the University of Cape Town. The Board exercises discretion in its decisions about grants, but it is attentive to the needs of the University and the stated requests of donors to the UCT Fund.

Q: How do I find out about UCT Alumni & Friends events in the United States?

A: The best way to keep posted is through our social media which is becoming the primary form of communications. We also send email broadcasts, so please let us know how to reach you. Email UCT Fund and we’ll keep you posted on UCT hosted events and outside events of interest.

Q: How do you select the cities for alumni events?

A: We have events where we receive volunteer assistance. UCT Fund relies on our network of alumni volunteers across the United States to be the local representative, scout out events locations, and greet alumni at the events as a UCT regional ambassador. We welcome alumni volunteers to assist with networking events in their local areas across the United States. Please feel free to send suggestions for activities of interest in your city.

Q: I have not received anything from UCT. How do I update my details?

A: Your contact information may not be updated in the UCT database. Please keep in touch with our U.S. office by emailing your contact details to UCT Fund. In addition, UCT in Cape Town maintains alumni master databases. You can also complete the online form here. Once you sign up, you will automatically be enrolled in UCT’s database to receive emails and printed materials. Please indicate if you do not wish to unsubscribe to emails.

Q: How do I find out about my class reunions taking place on campus at UCT?

A: Contact your Faculty at UCT for a schedule of class reunions. For more info visit UCT’s main website for a list of Faculty.

Q: How can I purchase UCT memorabilia and branded merchandise?

A: UCT does not have a U.S. store. However, the UCT campus Alumni Relations Department can assist you with merchandise and memorabilia purchase requests. Please email the UCT Alumni department for further assistance.

ABOUT UCT FUND, INC. (USA OFFICE)

The University of Cape Town Fund, Inc. is a U.S. based 501(c)(3) nonprofit that supports the University of Cape Town in South Africa. The Fund seeks U.S. donors to support scholarships, grants and other assistance on a non-discriminatory basis to UCT students, faculty, and for research projects for improvement of the social, political and economic environment in South Africa and the African continent. Learn more